The fans of Pinoy Pop (P-pop) boy group SB19, known as A’TIN, have etched their names in golden letters by seizing the grand title of Billboard’s Fan Army Face-Off Winner in the 2023 edition of the annual fandom showcase. Rising like a meteoric star, the Pinoy pop sensation’s aura continues to illuminate the world, with their fandom, A’TIN, acting as the dazzling constellation surrounding them.
The Billboard Fan Army Face-Off, a yearly arena where fans’ devotion, zeal, and unity are tested to reveal the strongest fanbase, unfolded its drama on July 5 this year. A battle not of swords and shields but of unwavering loyalty and passion, the voting contest reached its thrilling crescendo on August 8.
A diverse lineup of 64 acts adorned the battlefield, with international music icons like Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Ariana Grande, and mighty K-Pop giants like BTS, TWICE, and SEVENTEEN. But amongst these titans stood SB19, radiating confidence and Filipino pride.
For five riveting weeks, the Filipino boy band’s followers marched alongside them, their voices singing the songs of support, their votes pouring in like a relentless river until they reached the final duel. And there, in a heart-stopping clash that saw 51.1% of the votes go to A’TIN against SEVENTEEN’s fandom, known as CARATS, with 48.9%, they emerged as the triumphant champions.
After a final battle that saw SB19 emerge victorious against SEVENTEEN, the Billboard report painted a vivid picture of the showdown. With the thrilling narrative of multiple rounds leading to the Elite Eight, the Quarterfinals, and the Semifinals, the 2023 Fan Army Face-Off unfolded like an epic tale, finally crowning SB19’s A’TIN as the top fan army.
Billboard captures the emotion, the enthusiasm, and the glory of the competition: “It’s official! SB19’s beloved fanbase A’TIN have taken the crown for the 2023 Billboard Fan Army Face-Off, and the boys could not be more proud.”
In the Billboard Facebook video announcing the winner, SB19 thanked their loyal followers. Stell’s voice, filled with gratitude, said, “We really appreciate all of your efforts.” The words “Dahil itong lahat ay para sa A’TIN” resonated with Justin, and the group’s spirited shout of their fandom’s name filled the air.
The accolades continued on Twitter, with SB19’s heartfelt message to A’TIN: “Congratulations, A’TIN! You’ve once again proven the power that you hold. Maraming salamat!”
Watch the Billboard news about SB19 here:
In another video message, SB19, composed of Pablo (Leader/Main Rapper), Stell (Main Vocalist/Lead Dancer), Josh (Lead Rapper/Sub Vocalist), Ken (Main Dancer/Lead Vocalist), and Justin (Bunso/Sub Vocalist), again expressed their gratitude to the 2023 Billboard Ultimate Fandom, A’TIN.
Josh’s words, “You never fail to amaze us with your dedication,” were wrapped in love, and Pablo’s anticipation, “We look forward to conquering more heights with all of you,” hinted at future victories.
The Ultimate Fandom is from the Philippines! Congratulations, A'TIN and SB19! @SB19Official @billboard #BBFanArmy2023 https://t.co/jx8Td2fh0E
— GoodNewsPilipinas.com (@GoodNewsPinas_) August 10, 2023
Last year’s winners, Stray Kids’ STAY, and past victors like Super Junior’s E.L.F, T-ara’s Queens, and BIGBANG’s VIPs, were etched in the annals, but this year, it was SB19 and A’TIN’s turn to shine, to celebrate, and to bask in the love and pride of a fandom and a nation united.
SB19, the first all-Filipino music artist to be named a finalist for the Billboard Music Awards, made waves recently with its chart-topping single, “Gento”, gaining worldwide attention ahead of its ongoing Pagtatag World Tour.
SEND CONGRATULATIONS in the comments below to A-TIN of SB19, the Ultimate Fandom winner of the Billboard Fan Army Face-Off 2023!
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